Lots of locks

 From the Macclesfield canal on the flanks of the Pennines to Manchester are dozens of locks, dropping down towards the west, not far above the Mersey. The exact number is currently beyond me. 

On the first day down the Marple flight,  volunteers helped. Thank you! This flight will be closed in a week, water shortages.

Thereafter on our todmalone, a trying day with a blockage in one lock requiring 2 mechanics, and using much water....so that Santiago grounded.  Me on the tiller feeling helpless, Capn JJ on the bank instructing. Eventually more water was released from the preceding lock, and we slowly floated off. 

On the towpaths passersby almost all ask are you alright? And it is genuine..they want an answer. 

Thence into Manchester,  different languages, accents, everywhere, a fascinating vibrant city. Construction boom, apartment building. Coffee served by 2 charming youngsters from.the Czech republic. One was born in Mongolia but moved as a baby. He had interesting insights into the 3 world he had experienced.

More locks, 9 in all, through the city. Underground for half, as the city had been built over them. 




 

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